McConnell denounces Democratic war powers resolution

By Susan FerrechioJan 13, 2020

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said he would oppose a war powers resolution Democratsplan to bring up for debateas soon as Tuesday as part of their effort to curb President Trump’s military action against Iran.

“We appear to have restored some measure of deterrence in the Middle East, so let’s not screw it up,” McConnell, a Kentucky Republican, said on Monday.

Sen. Tim Kaine, a Virginia Democrat, is expected to bring up a war powers resolution as soon as Tuesday. It would require the president to withdraw military operations against Iran within 30 days unless Congress authorizes further action.

The House passed a nonbinding version last week.

McConnell said he “will strongly oppose” the Kaine measure and said the chamber should hold hearings and write “more tailored legislation” if lawmakers want to have a say in U.S. military action in the Middle East.e Magazine: December 17

“I would urge all of our colleagues to consider what message the Senate should send to Iran and the world at the very moment that America’s actions are challenging the calculus in Iran for the better.”

McConnell accused Democrats of a “head-spinning” double standard.

They did not challenge President Barack Obama’s airstrikes in Libya, he said, or the efforts to fight terrorism in Syria and Iraq.

“For years now, I have wanted the Senate to go on the record about our military presence in Syria and Iraq,” McConnell said. “I’m glad my Democratic colleagues will finally be interested in having that discussion rather than ducking it.”